Prolotherapy aka Regenerative Injection Therapy (RIT)

Musculoskeletal pain is one of the top reasons that patients seek medical care in North America. As we age, there is a degree of tissue degeneration that occurs resulting in erosion of cartilage, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, disc degeneration and many other chronic conditions that cause pain. Some of our patients have a history of major trauma such as tears, sprains or fractures. Others have experienced a series of micro-traumas over time such as workplace injuries stemming from repetitive movement or poor posture. Similarly, sports injuries can cause major trauma or gradual excessive wear and tear on joints. If you suffer from headaches, TMJ pain, low back pain, joint pain, ligament laxity, or have suffered a sprain, tear or other musculoskeletal injury, you may be a candidate for Prolotherapy.

Prolotherapy is a nutrient based injectable solution made up of a sugar called dextrose and a local anesthetic such as lidocaine or procaine. It has more recently been called Regenerative Injection Therapy to highlight its anabolic effect. Ligaments are poorly innervated tissues that can generate pain. This therapy aims to increase collagen (proliferation) and strengthen the tendons and ligaments in the body. The glucose component of the Prolotherapy solution helps to trigger the body’s natural healing cascade consisting of inflammation, proliferation and remodeling. This process acts to attract platelets that signal growth factors and increase fibroblastic activity, ultimately resulting in collagen deposition. The net effect is increased tensile strength of the tissue, increased joint stability and decreased pain. Dr. Leanne Florence ND has training in both Prolotherapy and PRP.